30 Oct 2026
By Mark Feder

Why the Square Footage in a Listing May Not Match the Mortgage Appraisal

Home Buying Tips
A home's advertised square footage can influence which properties buyers tour, how they compare asking prices, and what they expect from an appraisal. But the number in a real estate listing is not always the same as the living area reported by a mortgage appraiser. Differences can occur even when nobody intended to provide misleading information. Understanding why can help buyers evaluate a home more accurately. Square Footage Depends on What Is Counted Listings may draw measurements from tax records, prior listings, builder plans, or information supplied by the seller. Those sources do not always use the same definitions or…
Read More
28 Oct 2026
By Mark Feder

Why an Easement on the Property Could Raise Questions During Mortgage Approval

Home Buying Tips
You may love a home's layout, yard, and neighborhood without realizing that someone else has a legal right to use part of the property. That right may be an easement. Easements are common, and many cause no problems at all. Still, buyers should understand what an easement allows, where it is located, and whether it affects the property's value or access before moving forward with a mortgage. What Is an Easement? An easement generally gives another party a limited right to use land owned by someone else. Utility companies may have easements to maintain power lines, pipes, or other infrastructure.…
Read More
17 Jul 2026
By Mark Feder

What If My Mortgage Pre-Approval Expires?

Home Mortgage Tips
A mortgage pre-approval is one of the most valuable tools in your homebuying journey. It's not just a letter stating how much you're qualified to borrow; it’s a written commitment from your lender that assures sellers you have the financial backing to make a competitive offer. Having a pre-approval letter in hand can give you a significant advantage in a competitive housing market, signaling to sellers that you’re serious, financially prepared, and ready to move forward. However, like many things in life, pre-approval letters have an expiration date. If you don't find your dream home before that date passes, you…
Read More
30 Jun 2026
By Mark Feder

What Lenders Mean When They Ask for Updated Financial Documents

Mortgage Tips
Applying for a mortgage does not end once your initial paperwork has been submitted. Many homebuyers are surprised when their lender requests updated financial documents later in the process. While it may seem repetitive, these requests are a normal part of mortgage underwriting and help ensure your financial situation has remained stable. Understanding why lenders ask for updated documentation can help reduce stress and keep your loan moving toward closing. Why Updated Documents Are NecessaryA mortgage approval is based on your financial profile at a specific point in time. Because the loan process can take several weeks, lenders often need…
Read More